Ogando placed on DL with biceps tendinitis

Burns called up from Triple-A; Lindblom to start Monday vs. Oakland

By
T.R. Sullivan
MLB.com

ARLINGTON -- Rangers manager Ron Washington had an unwelcome surprise waiting for him when he arrived at the Ballpark in Arlington on Thursday.

Alexi Ogando has right biceps tendinitis and was placed on the disabled list. The Rangers had no idea that Ogando was having issues during his six-plus innings of work in a 6-2 victory over the Athletics on Wednesday.

Reliever Cory Burns was recalled from Triple-A Round Rock to replace Ogando, and Josh Lindblom is expected to start against Oakland on Monday.

Washington suggested Ogando's problem is minor and it might have something to do with his increased workload as a starter. He was used as a reliever in 2012 before being moved to the bullpen this season.

"He's a starting pitcher and he's taken on a big work load," Washington said. "Rather than letting this drag on, we're going to nip it in the bud and get it right. Otherwise, he'll take the ball and go back out there."

Ogando is scheduled to have an MRI at some point and will be eligible to come off the disabled list on May 31. The Rangers now have three veteran starters on the disabled list. Matt Harrison is still recovering from back surgery and is likely to be out until August.

Colby Lewis, who had flexor tendon surgery 10 months ago, is getting closer to returning. He had a minor bout of triceps tendinitis earlier this week and was recalled from his medical rehabilitation assignment, but he is scheduled to throw a bullpen session on Friday and start on Monday for Double-A Frisco.

Despite the injuries, the Rangers went into Thursday with a seven-game lead in the American League West.

"It just means we have pretty good depth," Washington said. "Drama ... adversity ... those guys in the clubhouse are used to it. Somebody has to step up. If you don't step up, somebody else will step up."